5 Chris Paul replacements the Phoenix Suns could target this off-season
By Dalton Sell
Phoenix Suns target No. 2 – Fred VanVleet
In addition to Terry Rozier, another point guard the Suns are reportedly keeping tabs on is Raptors’ veteran Fred VanVleet, per Fischer. Unlike Rozier, VanVleet is eligible to become a free agent if he’s planning to decline his upcoming player option, which seems inevitable. VanVleet will have plenty of suitors in that case, but the Suns should make a strong effort to land him.
VanVleet would be an excellent fit alongside Phoenix’s other core pieces. Since becoming a starter full-time four seasons ago, he’s averaged 19.3 points, 6.7 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game. The guard would be an excellent choice to run the offense in Phoenix. The most prominent knocks on VanVleet’s game are his efficiency and defense, but that should not overshadow what else he brings to the table, as he’d be a tremendous addition.
The big uncertainty surrounding VanVleet is how much money he will be seeking in free agency, given that he does indeed opt out of his deal. He’s certainly going to be seeking a raise compared to the $21.3 million average salary from his previous deal, and there are questions as to which of the teams with money across the league would be willing to pay up. Regardless, the Suns should inquire at the bare minimum about landing an All-Star point guard in Fred VanVleet.